How to Operate a Power Saw

Power saws are very useful - and potentially very dangerous. Operate your power saw with care.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Band Saws
• Circular Saws
• Miter Saws
• Reciprocating Saws
• Saber Saws
• Table Saws

1. Read your owner's manual carefully before operating your power saw.

2. Observe all of the safety precautions discussed in your manual.

3. Use the safety devices that come with your saw. Blade guards and kick-prevention devices are there for your protection.

4. Keep your hands away from the blade.

5. Avoid cutting badly warped wood or boards with knots or nails.

6. Stand to one side of the blade while it is in motion in case wood is kicked back.

7. Tighten all of the power saw's moving parts and remove any loose tools from the work area.

8. Unplug the saw before changing blades or making adjustments.

9. Be sure that the blades you use are sharp and clean to avoid binding and burning.

10. Make sure that nothing around you can serve as a distraction. It only takes a second for the blade to grab the wood and throw it back at you or flip a chip your way.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask when operating a power saw.